Clearing your cache can resolve many common issues like slow performance, websites not loading correctly, or apps behaving strangely. This comprehensive guide covers verified methods for clearing cache across all major platforms and browsers, updated for iOS 26 and Android 16.
What is Cache and Why Clear It?
Cache is temporary data stored by your device to make things load faster. However, as it builds up, it can consume gigabytes of storage—especially "System Data" on iPhones. Clearing it can fix loading issues, free up RAM, and resolve app glitches.
How to Clear Safari Cache & History (iPhone)
In iOS 26, Apple has moved app settings. You now find Safari by going to Settings > Apps > Safari. From there, you can tap Clear History and Website Data. A common issue is seeing this button "grayed out." This is usually a Screen Time restriction. To fix it, go to Settings > Screen Time > Content & Privacy Restrictions > Content Restrictions > Web Content and set it to Unrestricted.
Clearing System Data & App Cache (iOS vs Android)
Android 16 allows a direct "Clear Cache" button in app settings. On iPhone, you have two main choices: Offloading and Deleting. Offloading removes the app but keeps your "Documents and Data" (like chat history), which often stays quite large. If you need to clear massive amounts of "System Data" (like 20GB+ from WhatsApp), deleting and reinstalling the app is currently the only verified way to fully reset that storage.
Browser Cache (Chrome, Edge, Firefox)
For desktop browsers, the quickest way is the Ctrl+Shift+Delete (Windows) or Cmd+Shift+Delete (Mac) shortcut. Ensure you select "All Time" and check "Cached images and files." This will log you out of most sites but will force the browser to download the latest versions of your favorite websites.
System & Game Console Cache
- Windows 11: Go to Settings > System > Storage > Temporary files to clear old update logs.
- PS5: Boot into Safe Mode and select "Clear System Software Cache."
- Samsung TV: Use the "Device Care" menu under Support settings to manage app storage.